I was served a small claims summons, but I don't have a job so how can they get the money from me to pay them

Question

I have been paying them 10.00 a month, but they still are taking me to court.

Answer 1

Sounds wierd. Show up and contest it. What do you have to lose?

I just wonder why hire a lawyer to sue you if they are getting paid. If that's all you can afford, its not going to make the money come in any faster, and it might make it come in slower.

Practically speaking, why is it worth their while to harass a paying customer.

Answer 2

Here in California, money judgments are good for 10 years and are renewable. If you own property, they could put a lien on it. If you get a job, the could garnish your wages then. There are many ways to collect judgments and time is on there side.

Some small claims courts will allow you to request and order to pay the judgment in installments. You should contact a local attorney or legal aid society regarding the laws of your particular state.

Answer 3

I would let the judge know that you have made an effort to pay as much as you can and you are doing the best that you can do for now. Let him know that in the near future you will attempt to pay more when you can.

Answer 4

If the court renders a judgment against you, they court can put a lien on your property, or garnish your future income.

But if the court determines that you have been paying as much as you can, in good faith, then it might just order that arrangement to continue.

Answer 5

they can take it from your bank account, they can tow your car, they can void your cars registration, garnish your paycheck....after a year or so they will give up, and the claim will expire over time..18 yrs in jersey, unless they renew it

Answer 6

Don't worry they will get their money. Any future wages will be garnished if you don't pay.

Answer 7

Don't worry, the judge will tell you to get a job or go to jail, it's up to you, you want to make dollars or butt buddies